Hundreds of young religious take part in 'WYD in Vijayawada'

Participants from 42 female and 16 male congregations assembled at the Stella Maris College auditorium for the event dubbed ‘Rio in Vijayawada’ – for a day of prayers, readings, songs and activities.

India

September 17 2013, 5:41 PM

The diocese of Vijayawada in the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh last Sunday organised a meet of young priests, nuns, seminarians and novices. 160 young religious relived the excitement of Pope Francis's first World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro.

Participants from 42 female and 16 male congregations assembled at the Stella Maris College auditorium for the event dubbed ‘Rio in Vijayawada’ – for a day of prayers, readings, songs and recreational activities.

The event began with the recitation of Lauds, followed by the greeting of Bishop Govindu Joji, Apostolic Administrator of the diocese.

The religious then split up into 20 groups to sing psalms and reread some homilies Pope Francis delivered during World Youth Day in July.

Sister Jayanthi, a missionary of the Immaculate Conception, said that events like this "build communion among us and are a source of great inspiration to lead a religious life of commitment and passion."

Sister Alberta, mother superior at the Stella Maris College, said she felt "blessed by the presence of young religious who have proven that they are happy to be part of the universal Church."